How To Keep A Long-Distance Relationship

Long-Distance Relationships Can Be Tough -- Here Are Five Essential Tips To Make Them Work

If given the choice, we’re pretty sure no one would pick to be in a long distance relationship. Some say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but we’re calling bullsh*t on that one: being apart from the person you love is hard. And to make it work - and keep it a healthy, functional and sexual, you have to put in time, commitment and well, get a little creative.

The good news is you're not alone. Over 14 million couples define themselves as being in long-distance relationships. If you're a college student, the numbers are even higher: about a third of college relationships are long-distance relationships, and 70% of college students have been in a long-distance relationship at some point.

The other good news is that some studies actually suggest that long-distance couples feel more love for each other than those that are geographically close, and even idealize their partners more. On the other hand, the loneliness factor increases, and satisfaction levels are lower.

Here’s how to make sure you stay connected, regardless of how many miles or oceans separate you.

Keep Your Word

In long distance relationships, building trust is the most important element that will keep you happy as a couple. Because you’re not constantly around each other or even have the option to see one another on a weekly or monthly basis, it’s easy to let your mind wander or worry. However, to keep you both grounded and build the foundation your relationship needs, make concrete plans - even if they’re virtual! - and keep them. You should both be confident that you can rely on each other, even from so far away. By having something consistent - a call after work every day, a Skype sesh at nighttime, or just the agreement that you always text ‘I love you’ before bed - you build the legs your love can stand on.

Keep The Sex Alive

There are only so many dirty photos and text messages you can send before you start to feel burnt out and sexually frustrated. Instead of doing the same message, photo, right hand dance, try something else instead: try phone sex! Hearing each other’s breath, moans and talking to one another while you’re pleasuring yourself will make it feel about as real as it can when you’re not physically together. And when you’re reunited after a long sprint, get in as much intimacy as you can - and not just that gotta-have-you release - but make an effort for some romance, too.